New Covid variant XEC spreads rapidly worldwide raising health concerns

A new Covid-19 variant, called XEC, has emerged and is spreading rapidly worldwide. First detected in Germany in late August, it has been reported in 27 countries, including the UK and the US, raising concerns about its increased transmissibility. XEC is a recombinant variant formed from two existing strains and shares genetic links with the omicron variant. Symptoms are similar to those of other Covid variants, including fever, cough, and fatigue. Health experts are monitoring its severity as cases rise. In response, a new vaccination campaign is set to begin in the UK from October 3 to December 20. Eligible individuals include those over 65, care home residents, and frontline workers. Vaccines are expected to provide good protection against severe illness from this variant.